Multi-level parking planned for hilltop temples in Visakhapatnam

Measures for Better Amenities at Temples

Endowments Commissioner K. Ramachandra Mohan stated that steps are being taken to improve amenities for pilgrims at major temples across the State.

Inspection at Simhachalam Temple

The Commissioner visited the Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple at Simhachalam on Tuesday. Mr. Ramachandra Mohan, along with engineering officials, inspected the amenities at the temple. They focused on the works under the PRASAD (Pilgrim Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive) scheme, including the Ganga dhara, trekking path, and bus terminus area.

Implementation of Standard Operating Procedures

Speaking to the media, Mr. Ramachandra Mohan mentioned that a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) is being implemented at major temples to ensure 100% satisfaction for pilgrims. He issued orders to the Regional Joint Commissioners (RJCs) and Deputy Commissioners to follow the SOPs without deviation.

Parking and Quality Control Plans

He announced plans for multi-level parking at hilltop locations, including the Simhachalam temple and the Sri Durga Malleswara Swamy temple in Vijayawada, to address parking issues. He instructed temple officials to maintain the quality of ‘laddu’ and other ‘prasadams’ made in temple kitchens. He stated, “An official of the rank of superintendent or assistant commissioner of the temple should taste the ‘prasadam’ every day before distributing it to devotees.”

Focus on Devotee Experience

Noting that around 90% of devotees visiting temples for darshan are common people, he emphasized the need to ensure they do not face any inconvenience. Steps are also being taken to allocate specific slots for protocol VIPs.

Queue Management and Sanitation

The Commissioner directed officials to manage queue lines, sanitation, and safe drinking water supply properly. He mentioned that three different designs for toilet construction have been made based on space availability. He advised increasing volunteer enrollment with the support of NGOs to provide better services to devotees.